System and method for generating 3-D models from 2-D views

Abstract

The present invention generally relates to apparel design. In particular, embodiments of the invention are directed to systems and methods for generating three dimensional models from two dimensional view, such as flat cut files, for use in the design of patterns for apparel.

The invention claimed is: 
     
       1. A programmed computer system comprising:
 a 3-D model generator module comprising physical memory storing instructions that is configured to: 
 (i) receive one or more data files comprising of a 2-D apparel template, fabric pattern data, cut and sew line data, and seam allowance data; 
 (ii) provide a user interface to a user, wherein said user interface presents said 2-D apparel template in an editable format; 
 (iii) receive artwork from said user; 
 (iv) apply said artwork to modify said 2-D apparel template; 
 (v) render a 3-D model to said user based on the modified 2-D apparel template, wherein said 3-D model incorporates said artwork; 
 (vi) calculate a new seam allowance in said 3-D model whenever said user moves a piece of said artwork or a clothing pattern across one or more seems in said 2-D apparel template; 
 (vii) provide multiple views of said 3-D model, wherein said 3-D model may be rotated 360 degrees; and 
 (viii) generate a new garment pattern and apparel design using the 3-D model which incorporates the newly calculated seam allowance. 
 
     
     
       2. The programmed computer system of  claim 1 , wherein said garment pattern is printed onto a physical medium via a printing means. 
     
     
       3. The programmed computer system of  claim 1 , wherein said garment pattern comprises two dimensional flat cut pieces. 
     
     
       4. The programmed computer system of  claim 1 , wherein said 3-D model generator module is provided over one or more networks in a web-based manner. 
     
     
       5. The programmed computer system of  claim 1 , wherein said instructions further cause said 3-D model generator module to receive modifications to said three dimensional model from said user. 
     
     
       6. The programmed computer system of  claim 1 , wherein said instructions further cause said 3-D model generator module to populate a data store with inputs from patternmakers and production models. 
     
     
       7. The programmed computer system of  claim 6 , wherein said user interface is based at least in part on said inputs of said data store. 
     
     
       8. A computerized method for generating 3-D models for apparel design, the method comprising the steps of:
 (i) receiving one or more data files compromising a 2-D apparel template, fabric pattern data, cut and sew line data, and seam allowance data; 
 (ii) providing a user interface to a user, wherein said user interface presents said 2-D apparel template in an editable format; 
 (iii) receiving artwork from said user; 
 (iv) applying said artwork to modify said 2-D apparel template; 
 (v) rendering a 3-D model to said user based on the modified 2-D apparel template, wherein said 3-D model incorporates said artwork; 
 (vi) calculating a new seam allowance in said 3-D model whenever said user moves a piece of said artwork or a clothing pattern across one or more seems in said 2-D apparel template; 
 (vii) providing multiple views of said 3-D model wherein said 3-D model may be rotated 360 degrees; and 
 (viii) generating a new garment pattern and apparel design using the 3-D model which incorporates the newly calculated seam allowance. 
 
     
     
       9. The method of  claim 8 , further comprising the step of printing said garment pattern onto a physical medium via a printing means. 
     
     
       10. The method of  claim 8 , wherein said garment pattern comprises two dimensional flat cut pieces. 
     
     
       11. The method of  claim 8 , wherein said 3-D model generator module is provided over one or more networks in a web-based manner. 
     
     
       12. The method of  claim 8 , further comprising the step of receiving modifications to said three dimensional model from said user. 
     
     
       13. The method of  claim 8 , further comprising the step of populating a data store with inputs from patternmakers and production models. 
     
     
       14. The method of  claim 13 , wherein said user interface is based at least in part on said inputs of said data store. 
     
     
       15. The programmed computer system of  claim 1 , wherein edits, modification, and corrections on said user interface are represented on said 3-D model in real time. 
     
     
       16. The programmed computer system of  claim 1 , wherein said system allows for customization of said 3-D model.